A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Biarritz vs. Pamplona for Food, Nightlife, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Biarritz or Pamplona?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Biarritz or Pamplona? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Biarritz

Biarritz is a relaxing, quirky, and dynamic seaside town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. And you can't forget about the nightlife, food, and beaches.

Pamplona

Pamplona is a historic, elegant, and laid-back city. It's a large city, so you'll find plenty of things to do around town. Visitors also love the hiking, shopping, and museums.

Biarritz and Pamplona: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Pamplona than Biarritz, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Pamplona is better known for its museums, historical sights, hiking, and big city activities, while Biarritz is more popular for its resorts, beaches, shopping, and small town charm. Biarritz is well known for its surfing culture, long beaches, and seaside atmosphere. Pamplona is well known for being the home of the Running of the Bulls Festival. Also, Pamplona is famous for The Running of the Bulls Festival.

How is Biarritz different from Pamplona?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Pamplona and Biarritz. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Pamplona is a popular place for its museums and history. However, Biarritz is lacking in options for its museums and landmarks.

Pamplona offers a variety of museums and landmarks to choose from. Although most people visit in July for the Running of the Bulls, throughout the year there are some interesting museums and sights around town. You can check out the Cathedral of Pamplona, the Museo de Navarra, and the main plaza in town, Plaza del Castillo.

Biarritz offers a handful of options for museums and historical sights. Most people pass their time relaxing on the beach or taking a walk, but you can also visit the Biarritz Aquarium or the Biarritz Lighthouse.

Is the Food Better in Biarritz or Pamplona? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

There are opportunities to sample the local cuisine at high quality restaurants in both Biarritz and Pamplona.

Biarritz has a huge number of terrific restaurants. The food is a delicious mix of French, Spanish, and Basque flavors. Seafood is an obvious influence, but you'll also find meat and bread in many dishes. Local specialties include the oysters, pintxos (a snack of bread topped with ham, cheese, or vegetables), and marmitako (tuna stew).

Dining out in Pamplona is an experience not to be missed. Local cuisine includes lots of fresh vegetables like mushrooms, artichokes, asparagus, and onion. You'll find many unique dishes in the area, and you shouldn't leave without trying the txistorra (sausage), revuelto de setas (eggs and mushrooms), and ajoarriero (cod).

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Nightlife?

Both Biarritz and Pamplona have high quality vibes after the sun sets.

Biarritz has a lively atmosphere and nightlife is popular here. The city center has the most bars and clubs if you're looking for a party. Head to Port Vieux or Les Halles for some of the city's best nightlife. For a more relaxed night out, there are night markets as well as beach front terraces and rooftops where you can sip wine in a mellow atmosphere.

The people in Pamplona know how to have a good time. There's a good sized university population that keeps the nightlife active around town. The Old Quarter is likely where you'll find the most going on, particularly around Calle San Nicolás and Calle Estafeta. Earlier in the evening the crowd is pretty young, but as the evening passes you'll find the crowd matures a bit.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Resorts?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its resorts. However, Pamplona is not a resort destination.

Biarritz is known as a popular and fun resort destination. You'll find a mix of holiday cottages, vacation rentals, and beachfront hotels. There are also hostels around town for those on a budget.

Pamplona is not a resort destination.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Beaches?

Biarritz is a well-known place for the beache. However, Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Biarritz is considered a top beach destination. There are plenty of sandy beaches near the town that offer great surfing. For calmer water you can head to some of the smaller bays. Some of the most popular beaches in the area include Le Grande Plage, Plage du Miramar, and Plage Port Vieux.

Pamplona is not a beach destination.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for its Old Town?

Pamplona is a popular place for its old town. However, Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Pamplona. You'll find elegant buildings and grand plazas around the Old Quarter.

Biarritz does not have a historic old town.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Hiking?

Pamplona is an excellent place to visit for its hiking trails. However, Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Many visitors explore the nearby hiking trails while visiting Pamplona. It's a stop off on the famed Camino de Santiago, so if you want to walk part of the route, this is a nice place to explore.

Biarritz is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its shopping opportunities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its shopping areas.

Biarritz is a popular shopping destination with plenty of stores. The town has many market halls, boutiques, and department stores. Head to Avenue de Verdun for some quirky local stores or Place Georges Clemenceau for more high end shopping.

Pamplona has a variety of shopping areas worth visiting. You'll find some good markets around town. It's also fun to shop for local handicrafts or souvenirs to remember your trip by.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Families?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its kid-friendly activities.

Biarritz is a very kid-friendly seaside town. The sandy beaches are great for surfing, but you'll also find some calm water where kids can play. There are plenty of surf schools in the area that will help kids learn if they're just beginning to surf. Kids who love the ocean will find tons of entertainment in this seaside town.

Pamplona is a family-friendly seaside town. The city is very green, with many parks and gardens where kids can stretch their legs. There's also the Pamplona Planetarium and several museums that relate to environmental education.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Couples?

Biarritz is a well-known place for its romantic activities. Also, Pamplona is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Biarritz is a very popular place to visit for couples. There are many coastal walks, sandy beaches, and surfing opportunities that couples can enjoy. Combine that with great French cuisine and a lively atmosphere, and you won't find a better couples getaway.

Pamplona is a good seaside town for couples to visit. Although it's most known for the Running of the Bulls in July, the city also has some interesting sights at other times of the year. Couples can walk around the city walls, or explore the many parks in town. There are also some interesting museums.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Biarritz and Pamplona are both high quality destinations for backpackers.

Many backpackers visit Biarritz. The town attracts surfers and there are plenty of hostels and other accommodation options for budget travelers or backpackers.

Pamplona is a very popular seaside town for backpackers and budget travelers. Backpackers are drawn to this city during July for the Running of the Bulls festival. It's also a stop along the Camino de Santiago, which brings in a young, budget-oriented crowd.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Students?

Pamplona is a popular place for its student-friendly activities. However, Biarritz is not popular with students.

Plenty of students visit Pamplona. This is a quiet city, which appeals to some students. The laid back atmosphere makes it a nice place to relax and learn.

Biarritz is not popular with students.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Visitors will find notable public transit in both Biarritz and Pamplona.

Biarritz has some public transit options. There are regional bus lines to nearby towns operated by Chronoplus and PESA.

You'll find some public transit in Pamplona, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There's a comprehensive bus system around town.

Is Biarritz or Pamplona a more walkable city?

Biarritz and Pamplona are high quality when it comes to walkability.

Biarritz is a very walkable seaside town. The city center is very walkable and you can reach many of the beaches on foot as well.

Pamplona is a very walkable destination. It's a stop off on the Camino de Santiago, so many people arrive on foot. It's also an easy city to explore on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Biarritz Worth Visiting? and Is Pamplona Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Pamplona or Biarritz?

How long in Biarritz or Pamplona?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Biarritz or Pamplona to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Biarritz than Pamplona because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Biarritz, and 1-2 days is enough time in Pamplona.

Families should spend more time in Biarritz than Pamplona. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Biarritz, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Biarritz than Pamplona. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Biarritz that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Pamplona than Biarritz if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Pamplona.

One day in Biarritz or Pamplona?

The seaside town of Biarritz offers nightlife and food. Most people come for the beaches. With so much to do, one day is probably not enough time to see everything. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

The city of Pamplona offers food and shopping. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Biarritz is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. People enjoy relaxing at one of the resorts. But since there are so many activities, you'll likely want to spend more than a weekend exploring. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Pamplona is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this city makes for a great vacation. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Pamplona, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.

Five days in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Biarritz is a popular choice for travelers. Five days here is typical. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Biarritz, five days is sufficent for most. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Pamplona is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Biarritz or Pamplona?

Biarritz is a great place to explore. It is common to spend one week here. It's also a great beach destination, too. One week is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Biarritz has to offer. This seaside town offers something for everyone.

Pamplona is a great place to explore. Hiking can easily take up a good amount of your time here, too. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This city offers something for everyone.

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to France, The Best Contiki Tours to France, The Best 3-Week Tours in Spain, and The Best Bicycle Tours in Spain.

When comparing the travel costs between Biarritz and Pamplona, we can see that Biarritz is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Biarritz Expensive? and Is Pamplona Expensive?.

Which is Bigger, Biarritz or Pamplona?

Pamplona has a larger population, and is about 6 times larger than the population of Biarritz. When comparing the sizes of Biarritz and Pamplona, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.

When is the best time to visit Biarritz or Pamplona?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Biarritz or Pamplona in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Biarritz as well as Pamplona. The summer months attract visitors to Biarritz because of the beaches, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the hiking, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Pamplona this time of year.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the summer. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 20°C (68°F) in July, and Pamplona fluctuates around 20°C (68°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Biarritz this time of the year. In the summer, Biarritz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 209 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 209 hours of full sun.

Biarritz usually gets around the same amount of rain in July as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 81 mm (3.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Pamplona in the Autumn?

Both Pamplona and Biarritz are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. The shopping scene and the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Biarritz this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Pamplona for the hiking trails, the city's sights and attractions, and the shopping scene.

In the autumn, Biarritz is around the same temperature as Pamplona. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Biarritz in October average around 16°C (60°F), and Pamplona averages at about 16°C (60°F).

Biarritz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during autumn. Biarritz gets 144 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 144 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Pamplona. It's quite rainy in Biarritz. In October, Biarritz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 155 mm (6.1 in) of rain each month for the autumn.

Should I visit Biarritz or Pamplona in the Winter?

Both Pamplona and Biarritz during the winter are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Biarritz for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, many visitors come to Pamplona in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

In January, Biarritz is generally around the same temperature as Pamplona. Daily temperatures in Biarritz average around 8°C (47°F), and Pamplona fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Biarritz often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 85 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Pamplona receives 85 hours of full sun.

Pamplona gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Biarritz. Biarritz usually gets around the same amount of rain in January as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 183 mm (7.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Biarritz or Pamplona in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Biarritz and Pamplona. Many visitors come to Biarritz in the spring for the beaches and the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Pamplona for the activities around the city during these months.

Biarritz is around the same temperature as Pamplona in the spring. The daily temperature in Biarritz averages around 12°C (54°F) in April, and Pamplona fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

Biarritz usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Pamplona during spring. Biarritz gets 141 hours of sunny skies, while Pamplona receives 141 hours of full sun in the spring.

Pamplona receives a lot of rain in the spring. Biarritz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In April, Biarritz usually receives around the same amount of rain as Pamplona. Biarritz gets 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain, while Pamplona receives 163 mm (6.4 in) of rain each month for the spring.

Typical Weather for Pamplona and Biarritz